Planning a Remodel? Keep Value, Satisfaction in Mind
ORLANDO, Fla. – People decide to remodel their homes for many different reasons, which means the top remodeling projects for homeowner satisfaction and cost recovery vary, according to the latest Remodeling Impact Report.
The 2025 report from the National Association of Realtors® (NAR) and National Association of the Remodeling Industry (NARI) examines the reasons homeowners undertake remodeling projects, the projects’ outcomes, and the increased happiness experienced in the home once a project is completed. In 2024, Americans spent an estimated $603 billion on home remodeling projects in 2024.
The report found that the projects that received the highest Joy Scores – a ranking from 1 to 10 based on the happiness homeowners reported upon completion – include the addition of a primary bedroom suite (10), a kitchen upgrade (10) and new roofing (10).
In contrast, the remodeling projects with the highest cost recovery (estimated by members of the remodeling industry) include a new steel front door (100%), closet renovation (83%) and new fiberglass front door (80%).
The top remodeling projects that Realtors® recommend sellers complete before listing their homes include painting the entire home (50%), painting a single interior room (41%) and installing new roofing (37%).
Additionally, the projects for which Realtors have observed the highest increase in demand are a kitchen upgrade (48%), new roofing (43%) and a bathroom renovation (35%).
When consumers remodel their homes, the primary reasons include upgrading worn-out surfaces, finishes and materials (27%); improving energy efficiency (19%); desiring a change (18%) and preparing to sell within the next two years (18%).
While housing affordability and rising mortgage rates have been considered potential motivators for home remodeling, most consumers (89%) reported that housing affordability was not a deciding factor in their decisions to remodel. However, for a smaller segment of consumers (9%), housing affordability did serve as a motivating factor for undertaking remodeling projects.
Homeowners report that the most important outcomes from remodeling projects are improved functionality and livability (28%); durable and long-lasting results, materials and appliances (23%); and enhanced beauty and aesthetics (23%).
Following their remodeling projects, 64% of homeowners expressed a greater desire to be in their homes, while 46% reported they enjoyed their living spaces more.
And, if cost were not a factor, 92% of consumers indicated they would choose to remodel additional areas of their homes.
Florida Realtors® is The Voice for Real Estate® in Florida. It provides programs, services, continuing education, research, and legislative representation to 238,000 members in 50 boards/associations. Florida Realtors® Newsroom website is available at floridarealtors.org/newsroom.